_Southern Literary Messenger_.—We are indebted to the politeness of the publisher for the May number of this periodical. We have looked over some of its articles with pleasure. Among others “Odds and Ends,” “German Literature,” and “American Social Elevation” are well worthy of an attentive perusal. The character of this monthly “Messenger” is, in the general, unexceptionable, and it will, beyond question, exert a powerful, and, we trust a purifying, influence upon Southern literature. “The Hall of Incholese” is not only a failure in that department of literature with which it claims affinity; but it certainly possesses a character that can reflect but little credit upon the heretofore well established reputation of the “Messenger.” It seems neither fit to “point a moral, nor adorn a tale.” If the author has any desire for distinction in that particular line of writing, it will be necessary for him to form a more extensive acquaintance with “the little figure in black” before he can even hope for success. It would be better however to withdraw from the association altogether. In objecting to this article, we cannot be understood to object to the work in which it is found. The “Editorial Notices” are, to us, the most interesting part of the periodical. We turn to them with pleasure, in anticipation of an intellectual feast, and we are _never_ disappointed. Though we sometimes differ with the editor in matters of taste and opinion, yet we find satisfaction in following the ever flowing stream of thought along which he leads his readers. We bid it welcome to our desk, and heartily wish it success. From the Petersburg Constellation. _Southern Literary Messenger, for June_.—Our best thanks are due to the attentive proprietor for his prompt attention in forwarding the Messenger. As usual, it contains many pleasing articles: the MSS. of Franklin are literary curiosities. An excellent moral tale, entitled “Losing and Winning,” adorns the number. Our present limits will not permit more than these cursory remarks, but if enterprise and talent are any guaranty for success, Mr. White need feel no alarm for the ultimate success of his efforts in favor of _Southern_ Literature. Let the New York Mirror snarl if it will; there are papers in each Messenger which will outlive all the Norman Leslie “Pencillings by the Way,” and “Wearies my Love of my Letters?” of its erudite editors. Kennel a stag-hound with a cur, and the latter will yelp in very fear. From the Winchester Virginian.